Traeger Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Published:

September 2, 2024

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When it comes to grilling, most people immediately think of steaks, burgers, and hot dogs. But what if I told you that one of the most irresistible dishes to come off your Traeger grill isn’t a piece of meat at all? Enter the Traeger Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon a mouthwatering fusion of sweet and smoky flavors that can transform a simple fruit into a gourmet experience. Grilling pineapple brings out its natural sugars, caramelizing the edges to perfection, while the added touch of brown sugar and cinnamon elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence.

When life gives you lemons, grill some pineapples instead.
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Whether you’re looking to impress your guests at a summer BBQ or simply treat yourself to something special, this dish is the perfect combination of ease and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Pineapple Recipe

1. Uniquely Versatile: Whether served as a side dish, dessert, or topping for savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork, this grilled pineapple is incredibly versatile.

2. Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a show-stopping dish that looks and tastes like it took hours.

3. Health-Conscious: Pineapple is naturally rich in vitamins and antioxidants. By grilling it and adding a touch of brown sugar and cinnamon, you enhance its flavor without compromising its health benefits.

4. A Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, smoky flavors of this grilled pineapple. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

5. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner, a summer cookout, or even a fancy dinner party, this recipe fits the bill.

How to Make Grilled Pineapple

Ingredients

1 whole pineapple
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)
A pinch of salt

Detailed Instructions

Prep the Pineapple: Begin by cutting off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand it upright and carefully slice off the outer skin, removing all the “eyes” (brown spots). Cut the pineapple into rings or long spears, depending on your preference.

Mix the Coating: In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. If using butter, mix it into the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture to create a sticky paste. The butter helps the sugar mixture adhere to the pineapple and adds a richer flavor.

Coat the Pineapple: Using a brush or your hands, generously coat each pineapple ring or spear with the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Make sure to cover all sides evenly.

Preheat the Traeger Grill: Set your Traeger grill to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes. You can also use a different wood pellet, such as hickory or applewood, for added flavor.

Grill the Pineapple: Place the coated pineapple directly onto the grill grates. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the pineapple is caramelized and has grill marks. Be sure to flip the pineapple halfway through cooking to ensure even grilling.

Serve: Once the pineapple is done, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve it warm as a side dish, dessert, or topping for other dishes.

Tips For Traeger-Grilled Pineapple

Choose the Right Pineapple: Look for a pineapple that is golden-yellow, fragrant, and slightly soft to the touch. An underripe pineapple will be too firm and less sweet, while an overripe one may become mushy on the grill.

Cut Evenly: Ensure that your pineapple slices or spears are cut to an even thickness so that they cook uniformly on the grill.

Don’t Skimp on the Sugar: The brown sugar and cinnamon not only add flavor but also help in caramelizing the pineapple, giving it that perfect grilled texture.

Monitor the Grill Temperature: A consistent grill temperature is key to achieving perfectly caramelized pineapple without burning it.

Experiment with Toppings: While brown sugar and cinnamon are classic, you can also experiment by adding a touch of nutmeg, ginger, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy kick.

Pineapple is like a friend, sweet and spiky, but best when shared.
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Recipe FAQ

How do you keep pineapples from sticking to the grill?

To prevent pineapples from sticking to the grill, brush the grill grates with oil or use non-stick cooking spray before placing the pineapple. Additionally, lightly coat the pineapple slices with melted butter or oil to create a barrier between the fruit and the grill. Proper preheating of the grill to 350°F–375°F also helps reduce sticking by ensuring the pineapple caramelizes quickly.

How long will grilled pineapple last in the fridge?

Grilled pineapple can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if stored properly. Place it in an airtight container to retain its moisture and flavor. For longer storage, grilled pineapple can be frozen for up to 3 months, although the texture may become slightly softer upon thawing.

Does grilling pineapple remove bromelain?

Yes, grilling pineapple partially reduces bromelain, a natural enzyme that aids in digestion, as heat can deactivate it. However, grilling enhances the fruit’s sweetness and caramelization while still retaining other beneficial nutrients, like vitamin C and antioxidants.

What’s the best way to cut a pineapple for grilling?

For grilling, cut the pineapple into rings or spears. Remove the top, bottom, and outer skin, ensuring no “eyes” (brown spots) remain. For rings, slice the pineapple crosswise into ½-inch thick rounds and remove the core using a small cookie cutter or knife. For spears, slice the pineapple vertically into quarters, remove the core, and cut into long strips.

What is the most efficient way to cut a pineapple?

The fastest method is to slice off the top and bottom, stand the pineapple upright, and carefully cut away the skin from top to bottom, following the fruit’s natural curve. Remove the eyes with a paring knife and then slice the pineapple into rings or spears based on preference. A pineapple corer can make the process even easier if you frequently work with pineapples.

Does pineapple need to be ripe to grill?

Pineapple does not have to be fully ripe for grilling, but a ripe pineapple provides the best sweetness and texture. Grilling can enhance the natural sugars in slightly underripe pineapple, making it sweeter. However, avoid overly ripe pineapples, as they may become mushy on the grill. Choose pineapples with a golden hue, firm texture, and a sweet, fragrant aroma for the best results.

Common Mistakes in Grilling Pineapple

Using an Underripe or Overripe Pineapple Underripe pineapples may not caramelize well, while overripe ones can become too soft and mushy. Choose a moderately ripe pineapple that is golden-yellow, fragrant, and slightly soft to the touch.

Skipping the Oil or Butter Coating Not coating the pineapple or grill grates can lead to sticking, which can ruin the texture and appearance of the grilled slices. Always brush the pineapple with melted butter or oil to create a non-stick surface.

Uneven Slices Cutting the pineapple into uneven slices causes inconsistent grilling, with some pieces overcooked while others remain underdone. Ensure slices are uniformly thick, around ½ inch for rings or spears, to achieve even caramelization.

Adding Sugar Too Early Coating the pineapple with sugar too early can cause burning due to the high heat of the grill. Apply sugar-based coatings like brown sugar or cinnamon closer to the end of cooking for a perfectly caramelized finish.

Using High Heat Grilling pineapple over very high heat may scorch the surface before the inside is fully cooked. Stick to medium heat (350°F–375°F) for even cooking and caramelization.

Not Turning the Pineapple Failing to turn the pineapple during grilling can result in uneven charring. Flip the pineapple every 4–6 minutes to ensure consistent grill marks and caramelization.

Neglecting Resting Time Removing the pineapple from the grill and serving it immediately can result in overly hot or runny pieces. Let the pineapple cool slightly before serving to allow the caramelized coating to set and the flavors to meld.

Conclusion for Traeger Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon

Traeger-grilled pineapple with brown sugar and cinnamon transforms a tropical fruit into a show-stopping dish bursting with sweet and smoky flavors. The caramelization process enhances the pineapple’s natural sweetness, while the addition of brown sugar and cinnamon provides a rich, indulgent glaze. This recipe is versatile, suitable for use as a side dish, dessert, or topping for savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork.

To ensure the best results, select a ripe pineapple, cut it evenly, and coat it with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Avoid common mistakes such as grilling over high heat, adding sugar too early, or skipping the flipping process. With attention to detail and proper preparation, grilled pineapple becomes an easy yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavor and eye-catching presentation make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether served warm from the grill or chilled as leftovers.